Builders, Remodelers Promote Aging-In-Place Features In New And Existing Homes - November 5, 2004 November 5, 2004 - During the second annual National Aging in Place Week, Nov. 7-13, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) celebrates the efforts of builders and remodelers to enable people to comfortably age in place. NAHB’s RemodelorsÔ Council, Seniors Housing Council and Research Center are working with members of the Aging in Place Council and the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association to educate consumers about planning ahead to ensure home safety and comfort as they age. “During National Aging in Place Week, we want Americans to know that NAHB is working to build lasting coalitions of allied business professionals in communities across the United States to assist homeowners with pursuing their long-term care needs,” said Bobby Rayburn, NAHB president and a home and apartment builder from Jackson, Miss. “Many local home builder associations across the country and their members are organizing educational activities to highlight programs and support services – including healthcare, transportation and housing – that enable seniors to comfortably age in place, and satellite events are under way in 20 cities across the country.” NAHB encourages consumers who plan to age in place to take proactive steps to modify their homes. Basic alterations can make it easier to carry out daily activities, such as bathing, cooking or climbing stairs, and can improve a home’s overall safety. Consumers who are interested in renovating their homes are encouraged to hire building professionals with experience in the aging-in-place field. The NAHB Remodelors Council offers a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) professional designation, through which more than 500 professionals have been certified to design and build aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments. CAPS designees also can provide consumers with comprehensive and practical aging-in-place solutions. For addition information on CAPS program, visit www.nahb.org/caps. While studies have shown that most of the millions of aging Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964 will likely remain in their current homes after retirement, moving to a new home is an attractive option. Many of the new homes built today include ground-level main living areas with open floor plans to give consumers a wealth of choices and potentially save them money down the road. “Builders and remodelers have their finger on the pulse of today’s largest home buying population: Baby Boomers who want their homes designed so that they can gracefully age in place ,” Rayburn said. “Regardless of age or lifestyle choices, every American should have the option to live in a home that is comfortable and allows them to maintain their independence and dignity.” NAHB notes that builders and remodelers are incorporating the following aging-in-place features in new and remodeled homes: - At least one bedroom and bathroom on the first floor. First-floor living remains a high priority for many consumers, especially older adults. Having a full bath and a master bedroom on the main floor makes it easier for those who have trouble climbing stairs. - Conveniently located and easy-to-use controls and handles. Raised electrical outlets, electrical switches positioned slightly lower and thermostats with large, easy-to-read numbers are perfect for older people. Installing lever handles makes it easier to open doors for people with arthritis or someone carrying a sack of groceries or a small child. - No-step entrances. Having at least one entry without steps creates easier access for everyone, regardless of their ability. - Extra maneuvering space throughout the home. Wider doors and hallways can make a home more accessible to everyone. - Larger bathrooms with safety features. A bigger bathroom makes maneuvering easier for people with walkers, crutches and wheelchairs or a caregiver. Grab bars can provide stability and prevent falls. - Improved lighting. Because eyesight changes as people age, the importance of appropriate lighting cannot be overstated. Multiple controls can help limit the number of trips needed to turn lights on and off. Adjustable controls, or dimmers, can help prevent glare and ensure proper lighting. Task lighting also is preferred for cooking, reading and shaving, while softer light is appropriate for night trips to the bathroom. For more information on aging-in-place or National Aging in Place Week activities, visit Web sites developed by NRMLA and the Aging in Place Council, www.seniorsafehome.com and www.ageinplace.org. The Web sites provide information on design ideas, useful products and how to find them, and professionals who can help homeowners plan and implement home modifications.
ABOUT THE REMODELORS™ COUNCIL: The NAHB Remodelors™ Council represents the 14,000 remodeling industry members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Founded in 1982, the Council provides information, education and designation programs to improve the business and construction expertise of its members and to enhance the professional image of the industry. "Remodelor" is the trademarked identifier of NAHB members active in the remodeling industry. The Council’s membership incorporates 160 local councils in 43 states.
ABOUT THE SENIORS HOUSING COUNCIL: The NAHB Seniors Housing Council represents members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) involved in active adult and seniors housing. The Council provides information, education, networking and other resources as well as advocacy support to NAHB on key seniors housing issues.
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